In a world where players usually keep their transfer decisions bland and polite, Lamar Wilkerson gave us something a little more honest.
Wilkerson, one of the top shooters in the transfer portal, chose Indiana over Kentucky — a tough blow for a Wildcats team that desperately needs perimeter scoring. But it’s what he said after the decision that has fans raising eyebrows in Lexington.
🎙️ “I didn’t want to be just another guy”
Speaking with Jeff Goodman on The Field of 68, Wilkerson laid it out:
"Like I said, it was a pleasure being recruited by Kentucky, but I didn't want to go to Kentucky and just be another guy." He continued, "Hoosiers basketball is a big-time name, and they haven't been where they want to be.”
Translation? Wilkerson wanted to be the guy, not just one of the guys.
And that’s a bold take, considering Kentucky is one of the most storied programs in college basketball history. But it also highlights a very real challenge in today’s game: talented transfers want stardom.
🔥 Wilkerson’s stats speak for themselves
Wilkerson wasn’t bluffing about wanting a bigger role. His numbers prove he can carry the load. Last season, he averaged over 20 points per game while shooting nearly 45 percent from three.
That kind of efficiency — especially from deep — is exactly what Kentucky needs in Mark Pope’s offense. But instead of joining a roster to be a part of the reason, he would like to be the reason. And, that's okay. Not everyone will fit everywhere.
🏀 What’s next for Kentucky?
With Wilkerson (and Pierre earlier) off the board, Mark Pope’s Wildcats are running out of elite shooters in the portal.
Yes, Lowe should improve on his disappointing 26% three-point shooting with a better system. But right now, Kentucky doesn’t have a proven sharpshooter to lead the high-volume, perimeter-heavy offense Pope is known for.
That’s a problem.
And with fewer shooters left in the portal, Pope and his staff may need to either:
Get creative with international prospects
Revisit fringe options
Shift focus to developing in-house talent more quickly than expected.
🤔 Big Picture: Kentucky still has an elite draw, but not for everyone
Lamar Wilkerson’s comments may sting, but they speak to a larger shift in college basketball. NIL, the portal, and a hunger for spotlight roles mean schools like Indiana — who haven’t been dominant lately — can now win big recruiting battles.
Mark Pope is building something exciting, but moments like this are reminders: perception matters, roles matter, and not every elite player wants to be part of a crowded roster. On to the next.